The Sudanese army reported on Friday that it successfully thwarted an extensive drone attack by the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) targeting Merowe Airport in northern Sudan. The assault, involving 16 “suicide drones,” represents the third recorded strike on key airports engaged in military operations since the conflict began in April 2023.
According to the military’s statement, the attack started late Thursday at 11 p.m. local time (2100 GMT) and lasted until 4 a.m. Friday (0200 GMT). Utilizing anti-aircraft defenses and electronic jamming systems, the army intercepted all 16 drones without sustaining any casualties or equipment damage. Residents in Merowe and surrounding areas reported hearing anti-aircraft fire and explosions during the incident.
Merowe Airport, situated approximately 350 kilometers (217 miles) north of Khartoum, has remained a focal point of conflict. Earlier in the war, RSF forces launched an attack on the airport, alleging that Egyptian Air Force personnel were assisting the Sudanese army. The RSF later withdrew after intense clashes.
The RSF has intensified drone strikes on military facilities, with Atbara Airport in River Nile State also targeted for over a week, aiming to disable the army’s advanced drones. Additionally, the RSF claimed responsibility for a recent drone strike on the Wadi Saeida military base in Khartoum State, asserting that it destroyed several warplanes. However, reports clarified that only one fighter jet was damaged.
The growing use of drones highlights an evolving dimension in Sudan’s ongoing conflict, further compounding the challenges faced by the nation as it grapples with widespread instability.
This development, reported by Sudan Tribune, reflects the escalating technological and strategic dimensions of the crisis.